5 Appliances that Break the Most Often

5 Appliances that Break the Most Often

Eventually, every appliance you own is going to break down and need to be repaired or replaced. However, certain appliances will break down more often than others. With these appliances, it’s important to do your research on the lifespans of different makes and models. If ever you feel uncertain about a purchase, talk to us at West Coast Chief Repair. So, which appliances should you be a little more careful with?

1. Washing Machines

Washing machines always seem to be breaking down, and they seem to do it when you have overflowing hampers and empty closets. Why do they break so often? Well, part of it is just the work they do; the various parts are in close constant contact with water, and the spin cycle in particular can be brutal. But there is also a lot of room for user error. You can put too many clothes in one load, try to wash bedding that should be cleaned in an industrial machine, or fail to complete regular maintenance, such as cleaning the drum. To make breakdowns less likely to happen, make sure you have the machine placed in a good spot, that you keep the loads to a good size, and that you avoid putting items in the machine that can damage it.

2. Dryers

Much like your washing machine, this is an appliance that never breaks down at a good moment and often breaks due to user error. Just like the washing machine, putting too many items in or the wrong items can cause it to break. It also needs regular maintenance. However, the most dangerous user error is not cleaning the lint screen or the vent; the screen should be cleaned after each load and the vent once a year. Once again, take care with what you put into the dryer and make sure you are maintaining it well.

3. Refrigerators

When washers and dryers break, you have to get creative with your wardrobe. It might be embarrassing, but it isn’t devastating. When the fridge goes out, however, it can be a disaster. The food inside can spoil and you might not have enough money to both buy more and fix the appliance. Refrigerators tend to give out completely after about ten years. However, you can extend their lifespan and reduce the amount of repairs needed by taking some simple steps. The most important is to clean dust off the condenser coils every six months. You should also keep the fridge as stocked as you can and keep the door shut as much as possible so the compressor isn’t working more than is needed.

4. Dishwashers

Anytime an appliance deals with water, there will be many things that can go wrong. And because water can cause a lot of damage to your home at large, the impact can be severe. Dishwashers tend to need repair quite often, and need to be replaced about every 13 years. The biggest threat to your dishwasher is dry rot, which can impact the seals, gaskets, and hoses. The best way to prevent this is just to use your dishwasher often, preventing these elements from drying out. You should also use a special cleaner in the machine once a month, running it with the machine empty.

5. Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals are actually pretty tough devices. When used correctly, you should not expect much to go wrong. The problem is that many people don’t know how to use them correctly. Some common mistakes are putting non-food items in the disposal or putting in items that are too hard or thick for the machine, such as bones, corn cobs, and fruit pits. As long as you treat it right, it could last you a couple of decades, maybe more.

Which Appliances Break Less Often?

So now that we’ve looked at the appliances you should worry about, what about those that are highly dependable? Below are the most reliable appliances you have in your home:

Range hoods

Microwaves

Toaster ovens

Gas stoves

Ceiling fans

Of course, as we noted earlier, buying the right make and model makes a big difference. So, what are the most reliable brands you can buy?

Whirlpool

LG

Frigidaire

Miele

Bosch

Samsung

Speed Queen

Maytag

KitchenAid

Thermador

Wolf

For Repairs, Buying Advice, and More, Turn to West Coast Chief Repair

If you’re having a hard time with your appliance, need help maintaining it, or advice when buying a new one, our team is here for you. Home appliances are our business, and we know them better than anyone in the area. Give us a call and we will head over right away to help you.